Let us join in the prayers of the people this first Sunday in Advent:
In Advent, we build the framework of Christmas. Together we put up scaffolding, signalling something’s being renovated, something new is being created.
We look forward to the familiar mystery: newness and home-coming, joy and good will reborn.
Each week, we add to the construction: shine a light in the valleys of shadow, lighting the candles of hope, peace, joy and love.
In the season of Advent, we hold in our hearts those for whom this is a time of sadness; the lonely, the homeless, the bereaved.
We think of emergency services personnel, health professionals and care-givers, and those who investigate and report on tragedy: may they have courage, insight, and healing.
We hold in our hearts all who have lost loved ones in motor vehicle accidents and drownings, in holiday seasons past; those who mourn loved ones lost to depression and suicide, abuse or violence.
Despite the pain, may hope be born in them again.
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words of spirit and faith 